Interview tips

Common questions.Think about the questions that you are likely to be asked before you even get to the interview. This will help you prepare your answers in advance.

Research.Do your homework and find out all you can about the organisation, this will show you are keen and help you tailor your responses.

Consider appearances. In most organisations looking smart is a given so you should think carefully about what to wear. At an interview conventional office wear will create a professional first impression.

Focus. Plan your journey in advance. On the day of an interview, allow plenty of time to get there. Don’t be late, but don’t arrive too early either. You want to look keen but don’t want to send out the wrong message. It’s also useful to take a copy of your application form along with you. Listen to the questions carefully, take your time and think through your answers. Importantly, keep good eye contact.

Smile. Even if you feel nervous, make sure you smile because it will make you come across as friendly and relaxed.

Sell yourself. Connect previous experiences and accomplishments to the job you are being interviewed for. Focus on relevant experience and transferable skills.

Ask questions.Never say you have nothing to ask at the interview. It makes you seem disinterested so always have a few questions to ask planned in advance. Another tip – when asked ‘What’s your greatest weakness?’ don’t resort to saying you’re a perfectionist. This is a little clichéd. Instead, honestly explain one of your weaknesses and what you are doing to fix it. Then, instead of presenting a problem, you are presenting a solution.

Make notes.Even if you are taking everything in, making a note creates the impression that you are paying full attention. This is one of the best interview techniques for people who want to come across as conscientious.

End positively.When the interview is approaching an end try to conclude on a positive note. This could be as simple as saying something like, “I look forward to hearing from you.”